RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Choosing fresh fish is the first step that determines the quality and safety of the dish to be served. Without proper knowledge, many people mistakenly choose fish that look good on the outside but have actually lost their freshness.

Therefore, it is important to understand some key signs of fresh fish so that you can shop more carefully. This way, you not only get the best flavor but also protect your health from the risks of consuming unfit fish.

Here are the characteristics of fresh fish that can be observed while shopping, according to the Alodokter Kemenkes RI website:

1. Clear and bulging eyes. The eyes are one of the main indicators in how to choose fresh fish. Fresh fish generally have clear, transparent, and shiny eyes, resembling glass balls. In addition, its shape appears prominent or slightly protruding, not sunken inwards. Conversely, eyes that look cloudy, dull, grayish, or starting to sink indicate that the fish is no longer fresh and is beginning to undergo the process of decay. This condition occurs due to changes in the fluid around the eyeball as the natural decomposition process progresses.

2. Bright red gills. The gill area can be examined by opening the gill cover located under the fish's head. In fresh fish, the gills are bright red, appear clean, and are slightly moist without excessive slime. This bright red color indicates that the fish is still in good condition and has not yet deteriorated in quality. On the other hand, if the gills turn brown, gray, or pale, and appear to be covered in thick slime or are dry, this indicates that the fish is no longer fresh and the decomposition process has begun.

3. Firm and elastic flesh The texture of the flesh is one of the easiest signs to assess the freshness of the fish. When the surface of the fish's body is pressed with a finger, fresh fish meat will feel firm, resilient, and elastic, and will quickly return to its original shape. This condition indicates that the fish's muscle tissue is still intact and has not been damaged. On the other hand, fish that is no longer fresh usually feels mushy, watery, or easily falls apart when touched. If the indentation from your finger does not return to normal, it is best to avoid choosing that fish.

4. Scales stick firmly to the skin Scales are one of the important indicators in how to choose fresh fish. In fresh fish, the scales will stick firmly to the skin, do not easily come off, and feel smooth and slippery when touched. When held or rubbed, the scales also do not easily come off. Additionally, fresh fish skin has a thin layer of mucus that feels naturally slippery, not sticky or excessively slimy. Conversely, if the scales are mostly missing or the skin feels sticky and overly slimy, this indicates that the fish is no longer fresh and should be avoided.

5. The fresh aroma typical of the sea or river Before buying, try to smell the fish. Fresh fish has a natural, mild, and fresh smell, resembling the aroma of the sea or river, and it does not sting the nose. This aroma is also not too fishy. On the other hand, a sharp, sour, or ammonia-like smell is a sign that the fish is no longer fresh and potentially unsafe to consume. Therefore, it is best to avoid fish with a strong odor as it may indicate the presence of decaying bacteria.

6. Intact and non-leaking belly The belly of the fish can also be an important indicator in assessing its freshness. In fresh fish, the belly usually appears intact, not easily torn, and the interior remains firm and well-preserved. When pressed, no excessive liquid or unpleasant odor is released. On the other hand, the stomach of fish that are no longer fresh tends to be easily ruptured, feels mushy, and can release a white or yellowish liquid with an unpleasant odor. This condition indicates that the decomposition process has already begun inside the fish's body, so it should be avoided.

After buying fish, make sure to wash, clean, and cook it immediately. This helps maintain its quality and nutritional content. By applying the method of choosing fresh fish, you not only get more delicious food, but also help protect your family's health from the risk of diseases caused by consuming unfit fish.

If you are still unsure about assessing the freshness of the fish or find suspicious signs on the fish you have already purchased, it is better to avoid consuming it.